Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay

Micklewick Bay #5

by Eliza J. Scott

Every night, Jasmine Ingilby dreams of delicate sugar flowers and perfectly swirled buttercream. By day, she steals moments between her cleaning shifts to craft stunning cakes from her tiny kitchen, hoping to transform her passion into something more. But as a fiercely independent single mother of two, finding time to grow her fledgling business feels like reaching for the impossible.

Just when her hard work seems about to pay off, Jasmine’s carefully balanced world begins to crumble. Her landlord puts a ‘For Sale’ sign outside her rented home. Then a figure from her past returns to town, reopening old wounds Jasmine thought had long healed and causing trouble at school for her young children.

Then Max Grainger – her childhood best friend – unexpectedly returns to Micklewick Bay after twenty-five years away, and Jasmine is blindsided by the emotions his presence stirs. Now a successful businessman with a son of his own, Max seems determined to solve all her problems. But years of self-reliance have built walls around Jasmine's heart that even the sweetest gestures struggle to break through.

Will Jasmine's fear of getting burned again stop her from accepting help when she needs it most? Or will the loyal support of her friends help her discover the perfect recipe for love?

A heartwarming, emotional read about second chances, friendship, and finding the courage to believe in yourself, perfect for fans of Jessica Redland, Jenny Colgan, and Phillipa Ashley.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Chick Lit

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 3, 2025

About the author

Eliza writes heartwarming romance stories with happy endings.

She lives in North Yorkshire with her family. When she’s not writing, she can usually be found with her nose in a book/glued to her Kindle or working in her garden. Eliza also enjoys bracing walks in the countryside, rounded off by a visit to a teashop where she can indulge in another two of her favourite things: tea and cake.

Eliza is inspired by her beautiful surroundings and loves to write stories that will make you cry tears of joy, laughter and sadness.

You can find out more or get in touch here:

Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/elizajscot...

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizajscott/

Reviews

[BONNIE SMITH · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are only a few things I love more than books.....

And one happens to be sweets.

So when I was offered the next in the Micklewick series and saw "Cupcakes" listed in the title, it took little to convince me to read this.
Jasmine Ingilby, a single mom who lives, sleeps and breathes all things cake related, is hoping to take her baking to the next level when she arrives to her rented home to find a FOR SALE sign up.
Devastated, she's in for another surprise... her childhood friend Max Grainger suddendly appears back in her life.

I loved this second chance story and read through it rather quickly. It falls right into Eliza J Scott's series of cozy romances.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advanced copy of this. These opinions are my own.

[Rachael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book! I love this series - the setting, the characters, their lives…
I can’t wait for the next book.

[Susanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this, it was awesome ! Having got to know Jasmine and the girls through the previous books in the series, it was wonderful to finally see Jasmine get her own happily-ever-after. She's had to deal with so much, being a single mom and working two jobs as well as her cake business. Her love for her children and family, her independance, and her determination shines through in this story. So happy that she finally gets to see her dreams come true. Absolutely wonderful!
Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishing, and Eliza J. Scott for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Cortni · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a light and sweet read with a charming small-town vibe. I enjoyed the setting of Micklewick Bay and the cozy, community feel it brought to the story. The romance had some cute moments, and the bakery element added a warm touch.

That said, the pacing felt a bit slow at times, and I didn’t connect as much with the characters as I hoped. While it had all the ingredients for a feel-good romance, it didn’t completely hook me the way I wanted.

Overall, a pleasant, heartwarming read—just not as memorable for me as some others in the genre.

[Bookworm86 · Rating 5 out of 5]

BLOG TOUR REVIEW


Review for 'Cupcakes And Kisses In Micklewick Bay' by Eliza J Scott.

WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! Yet another absolutely beautiful book in this gorgeous series !! I cannot wait to read more books by this extremely talented author! Grab this delicious and delightful page turner today and you will not regret it!

I have absolutely loved each and every one of the amazing Eliza's books that I have read so far and this one is no exception!!! How she does it time and time again I will never know but I am just over the moon that she does as every time I need a feel good book to turn a frown upside down Eliza Scott is my go to woman!! Although this is the fifth in the series would have I had absolutely no problems reading it without and of the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader. I would always say to try to read any books that are part of a series in order but if you have started with this one, and who can blame you with the tasty looking cover, then have no fear! The e is a silver lining in starting a series later and that is once you have finished this gorgeous page turner and fallen in love with Eliza, Micklewick, Jasmine and the rest of the characters you can go back and read the previous 4 stunning books in this series while you are eagerly and impatiently waiting for the sixth book to come out. Speaking of which, I hope you are busy with this Eliza as I cannot wait to see what happens next in this stunning community! I absolutely love, Love, LOVE this absolutely stunning festive filled book and gorgeous series!! I have loved each book in this series and I have been looking forward to having a sofa holiday in Micklewick Bay ever since I left there at Christmas in 'Christmas at the Little Bookshop by the Sea'. I am extremely pleased to say that I was not let down and it was everything I hoped it to be and much more!! With a stunning storyline filled with romance, friendship, cakes, friends, goodies, community and everything you could ask for and so much more what on Earth are you waiting for?? Grab your copy and get lost in this beauty today!! If you want a book that will warm you up and turn a frown upside down this is definitely one for you!! Eliza's stunning evocative descriptions pulls you into the book leaving you feeling the sea air blowing around you, feeling your heart warm as you turn the pages and make you fall in love with the beautiful Micklewick Bay and the amazing characters in it!!! This is one of those places that immediately felt like I was returning to a holiday home by the time I got to book 2 in this series which is called 'Summer Days At Clifftop Cottage' and I look forward to coming back each and every time Eliza brings another book out in this series!! The characters all feel like friends and I always enjoy meeting previous friends and making new ones!! Eliza really does a beautiful job of weaving this incredible storyline together and thanks to her emotive writing skills she will have you smiling, frustrated, laughing and more! This book and series is an absolutely gorgeous, romantic, festive paradise escape!!! I was completely swept away with the storyline and loved having a holiday in the beautiful Micklewick Bay looking over the gorgeous sea while surrounded by so many amazing characters and beautiful sights!! I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying my kindle around with me every chance that I got as I just could not put it down and ended up devouring it in one sitting then being gutted I had finished it so quickly!! This is one stunning book with a stunning location that I would absolutely love to visit!! I was devastated when I came to the end of this gorgeous mini break away and had to get back to reality in Wales, although for a change it is sunny at the moment. I would seriously recommend this book to anyone and everyone!! A gorgeous uplifting page turning romance that will warm your hearts 💝.

Clear your schedules and grab the tissues as this is one gorgeous and unputdownable stunner that will keep you hooked and sweep you away on a stunning holiday❤️

Although this is the fifth book in the series I would have had absolutely no problems reading it without reading the first three books. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.

I absolutely loved getting to know the characters in this book who were all strong, realistic. I became completely invested in each and every one of them. They all had their own problems, quirks, secrets, strengths, weaknesses, feelings and all had unique personalities and I just absolutely loved getting to know them all. It was lovely seeing the amazing community and friendships develop and grow between different characters and it really made them all feel like friends rather than fictional characters. The fact that Eliza clearly cares for each of her characters shines through the pages in her fantastic descriptions of them and how she gives each their own unique personalities and brings them to life!! I really am looking forward to meeting each of them again and again on my future journeys to Micklewick Bay!! I will say that with all the characters, thanks to Eliza's fantastic and emotive writing skills she ensured I felt each of their love , friendship, pain, heartbreak, happiness, anger, sorrow and so much more. Eliza does an absolutely amazing job of bringing the story to life and the characters leap out of the pages as your turning them thanks to her evocative writing skills!! Well done Eliza!!!

Congratulations Eliza on yet another absolutely gorgeous, delicious and heart-warming read filled with everything you could ever ask for in a page turner!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your future books especially the future books in this series!! I would absolutely love to see this book turned into a movie!!! This is exactly why you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂

Overall an absolutely gorgeous and tasty book that will keep you glued to the pages, warm your heart and licking your lips ❤️!!!

#CupcakesAndKissesInMicklewickBay #MicklewickBay #ElizaJScott #StormPublishing #RachelsRandomResources #rararesources

@ElizaJScott @StormPublishing @RachelsRandomResources @rararesources

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[Bethan · Rating 5 out of 5]

|:: Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay .
By Eliza J. Scott
Chapter 8 Page 69
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟ì

{ “Right then, what are we waiting for?” She jumped up and grabbed her bag. “Last one to get their shoes on is a rotten egg!’.
Giggling she raced out of the kitchen and into the hall where their outdoor shoes were lined up by the front door.

Chloe let out an excitable squeal and shot after her mum, while Zack leapt to his feet, squawking as he tripped over the table leg, losing valuable seconds. ‘Mum, you cheated!’

Laughing hard he threw himself down the tiny hallway and pushed his feet into his trainers, beating his mum but coming second to his little sister. ‘Mum’s a rotten egg! Mum's a rotten egg’ Zak sang, Chloe joining in and giggling as the pair danced a victory jig. }

Jasmine Ingleby is the main protagonist of this book, a widowed mum of two, she had sworn off love for good. Every situation she had been in before had created a scar across her heart, fortifying the walls around it even more, making it hard to penetrate. Life was okay, she had a successful, but small business with a small circle of clientele for her hobby of making wedding cakes,m. She held down two jobs as well, proving her determination to provide a safe and happy environment. She put her children before herself. She actually put evelmtuiì8⁰ is before.. Why?
oh ⁸⁸
mOne by one, the mortar and rubble of her walls she built around her, holding her together while also keeping in the tensions, secrets, fears, and her worries as problems started to surface and niggle away at her slowly.

For every good thing that came by, something else fell apart. First of there's the surprising job opportunity, the reintroduction of an old primary school bully, her sneaky landlord..
Then there is Max. He looks nothing like the memory Jasmine has of him. He's changed, both in stature, physique, and confidence. She's not sure what or why he's come back but something tells her it might just involve her.

Although this book is in a series of others, this was my first introduction to Micklewick Bay. The characters were well thought out, .m see just how deep friendship can go. Her Friday nights with the girls made me giggle and reminded me of my friends. Of course.. then there was her very own knight in shining armour. He would appear at the most convenient times when ʻshe needed him most’.. and then there were the not-so-good things. The need for money to help her just get through life by the skin of her teeth. A feeling most people would have felt at least once in their lifetime.

I loved this book from the very first page. It created a wholesome, boy meets girl, friends to lovers kind of genre, the thick tension surrounding them was loaded with historical memories and feelings, it was sweetI also found Ernest to be a joy to read about! Most books end with a happily ever after but this one was practical, I like the way it left hope to settle and not take the easy route of, everything was okay, they fell in love, became the perfect family and lived happily ever after.

They didn't, but it did make me hope for it, for them.

A huge thank you to Eliza J. Scott, Storm and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|,

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay (Micklewick Bay #5)
By Eliza J. Scott | Published by Storm Publishing

Eliza J. Scott returns to the windswept charm of Micklewick Bay with Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay, a heartfelt story of resilience, renewal, and the kind of love that grows slowly—but sticks.

Jasmine Ingilby is a woman who’s always had to stand on her own. Her days are spent working grueling cleaning shifts; her nights are dedicated to her real passion—baking stunning cakes in a cramped kitchen, chasing the dream of something more. As a single mother of two, Jasmine has no margin for error. But just as her hard work begins to show promise, life throws her into another storm: her landlord is selling her home, her kids are struggling, and an unwelcome figure from her past reappears to stir up old pain.

Enter Max Grainger. Jasmine’s childhood best friend has returned to Micklewick Bay after twenty-five years—and he’s not the boy she remembers. Now a successful businessman and father, Max seems intent on helping Jasmine in any way he can. But Jasmine doesn’t accept help easily, and the walls she’s built around her heart are tall, sturdy, and well-worn.

What follows is a moving, slow-burn romance wrapped in layers of emotional truth. Scott never takes shortcuts with character development—Jasmine and Max feel fully lived-in, and their journey is as much about inner healing as it is about falling in love. The tension between Jasmine’s fierce independence and Max’s unwavering support adds depth without ever tipping into melodrama.

The real magic, as always in this series, lies in the setting. Micklewick Bay hums with warmth, community, and coastal charm. Returning readers will feel like they’re visiting old friends; newcomers will be tempted to start the series from the beginning.

Perfect for fans of Jessica Redland, Jenny Colgan, and Phillipa Ashley, Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay is a rich, comforting read about second chances, friendship, and the strength it takes to believe in love again.

Sweet, but never saccharine. Emotional, but grounded in real life. Eliza J. Scott has crafted a romantic gem that’s as satisfying as a cupcake—and just as impossible to resist.

Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced review copy.

[Anne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jasmine really couldn’t squeeze any more into her busy days – being a hands-on mother, the cleaning work for Stella’s mum (and there’s one lovely old lady that’d really miss her), the shifts at the bakery, producing the most wonderful special occasion cakes in her small kitchen. She’d love to spend all her time on the cake-baking she loves, but she’s barely keeping her head above water as it is. She can only just fit in the Friday nights in the pub with her close circle of friends – but they’re so very important to her, and keep her going. And just when a new opportunity crosses her path – with the potential to make her dreams come true – she returns one day to find a for sale sign on her rented house, with the need to find a new home for her small family.

And then there’s the surprise return of Max – the little boy she protected from bullies when they were little, as he spent time with her family to escape his father’s neglect. When he left, he said he’d return for her – with a flashy sports car, having made his fortune, to marry her. And his life has certainly changed – a beautiful house overlooking the bay, a property empire, a PA who looks after his son, a lifestyle Jasmine can only dream of. Romance is the last thing on her mind – her experience with her former husband put an end to all that. But behind the new glossy front, Max the man is still the boy she remembers…

The story shifts – quite seamlessly – between past and present, as Jasmine tries to decide the direction her life should follow. And her friendship circle – it was so lovely to spend time with them again – are always there to provide both emotional support and practical help. It’s a particularly engaging story, emotional at times, and filled with the same warmth as the earlier books in this lovely series. All the characters are wonderfully drawn, including the villains of the piece who certainly bring complications – I really loved both Jasmine and Max, so hoping they could overcome the obstacles and find their way to a happy future together. And Jasmine’s friendships – and her relationship with the family – were something I very much enjoyed.

Do read this one as a standalone if you’ve missed the earlier books in the series – you’ll soon be wrapped up in everyone’s lives, and feel part of the lovely community. And don’t be put off by the book’s title – I know the mention of “cupcakes” can be a red flag to many – because this is a book with real emotional depth and none of the fluffiness you might be expecting. I really loved it – and I know so many others will too.

[SJARR ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and author Eliza J. Scott for providing me with the eARC of “Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay”, in exchange for my honest review.
Publication date: July 3rd, 2025.

I would give this book 3.5 stars, but I am rounding it up to 4 stars.
It was a nice read. I particularly enjoyed the Yorkshire setting and how realistic parts of the plot seemed.

In this story, we meet Jasmine. A single mother of two children, and a baker who is juggling multiple jobs, childcare responsibilities, financial problems and dealing with past relationship trauma.
We also meet Max, a single dad and Jasmine’s long lost best friend, who has recently moved back to Micklewick bay with his son.
The two are reunited and Jasmine must learn to let herself be vulnerable, accept help, and let love into her life again, despite her fear of the past.

This story was very “real life”. It talks about a lot of serious things going on in Jasmine’s life and in her past and showcases a side of living that not all books tend to. This is something I think a lot of readers would be able to relate to in some sense. If you want to read something which is fairly real and raw- as opposed to something more happy-go-lucky and fictional feeling, you may find this enjoyable.
I personally found it a bit too intense at times, but that is just down to my own personal reading preference.

As for the romance aspect of this book- it is there, but there is not as much if it as I was expecting. We really do not see Jasmine and Max interact until about halfway through the book, and there are not many developments in their relationship until the very end.
I thought this was okay, as the story is primarily focused on Jasmine and her life. Just take note that this book is not a heavy romance- but does contain some romantic content.

Overall, I thought it was worth reading, and I would be open to reading the rest of the Micklewick Bay series.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay by Eliza J. Scott

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Every night, Jasmine Ingilby dreams of delicate sugar flowers and perfectly swirled buttercream. By day, she steals moments between her cleaning shifts to craft stunning cakes from her tiny kitchen, hoping to transform her passion into something more. But as a fiercely independent single mother of two, finding time to grow her fledgling business feels like reaching for the impossible.

Just when her hard work seems about to pay off, Jasmine’s carefully balanced world begins to crumble. Her landlord puts a ‘For Sale’ sign outside her rented home. Then a figure from her past returns to town, reopening old wounds Jasmine thought had long healed and causing trouble at school for her young children.

Then Max Grainger – her childhood best friend – unexpectedly returns to Micklewick Bay after twenty-five years away, and Jasmine is blindsided by the emotions his presence stirs. Now a successful businessman with a son of his own, Max seems determined to solve all her problems. But years of self-reliance have built walls around Jasmine's heart that even the sweetest gestures struggle to break through.

Will Jasmine's fear of getting burned again stop her from accepting help when she needs it most? Or will the loyal support of her friends help her discover the perfect recipe for love?

My Opinion

Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay is the fifth book in the Micklewick Bay series and whilst it can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the books in order. Eliza J. Scott has written a heart-warming novel with a wonderful community. A great addition to the series.

Rating 4/5

[Anita Resnick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every night, Jasmine Ingilby dreams of delicate sugar flowers and perfectly swirled buttercream. By day, she steals moments between her cleaning shifts to craft stunning cakes from her tiny kitchen, hoping to transform her passion into something more. But as a fiercely independent single mother of two, finding time to grow her fledgling business feels like reaching for the impossible.

Just when her hard work seems about to pay off, Jasmine’s carefully balanced world begins to crumble. Her landlord puts a ‘For Sale’ sign outside her rented home. Then a figure from her past returns to town, reopening old wounds Jasmine thought had long healed and causing trouble at school for her young children.

Then Max Grainger – her childhood best friend – unexpectedly returns to Micklewick Bay after twenty-five years away, and Jasmine is blindsided by the emotions his presence stirs. Now a successful businessman with a son of his own, Max seems determined to solve all her problems. But years of self-reliance have built walls around Jasmine's heart that even the sweetest gestures struggle to break through.

Will Jasmine's fear of getting burned again stop her from accepting help when she needs it most? Or will the loyal support of her friends help her discover the perfect recipe for love?

Oi! This is a quaint, cozy romance with lot of fun and sweetness. Eliza J. Scott describes Jasmine's world so perfectly you feel like you actually live there and her characters are your friends. I love the accents and language difference because it feels as if I'm completely in a different world than my own and I never want to leave it. It's a quick read on a warm summer night.

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have come to love the characters and the setting of Micklewick Bay, and I love it when a new book is released. I can’t imagine that I would ever grow tired of my visits or the plots, as they remain beautifully imagined and fresh.
The stories revolve around a group of friends and their partners, who come together to offer support when needed and cheer for each other’s small victories. This time, we are focusing on Jasmine and her children, who live in a rented house while Jasmine works multiple jobs to make ends meet.
Her dream is to focus on her cake-making and decorating business, but she can’t see a way to survive on that single income. Of course, she could try to upscale her operations, but the hurdles she would have to clear seemed insurmountable from her viewpoint.
I loved learning more about Jasmine and her fierce determination to remain independent and not to rely on the kindness of others. I admired her stoicism, but I felt that she remained loyal to her choices, despite it often being to her detriment. Having backed a poor choice for her children’s father, she is determined to avoid repeating her own mistakes.
Max Grainger is the epitome of overcoming adversity despite extreme hardship. Bullied when he attended school in the Bay, only Jasmine and her parents had offered him the love and security that he craved. Now a father and a successful entrepreneur, he has returned to bring hope to his childhood hometown. His parting shot when he left as a youngster was to vow to return for Jasmine, driving a sports car, and to make her his wife. He’s certainly wealthy enough…
Of course, this book is packed full of opportunities to catch up with the locals and to relax in their fabulous company. The warmth that Eliza pours into her books is evident from the early pages and kept me on track, despite the various setbacks Jasmine and her friends faced. It’s a somewhat hackneyed phrase, but this was a definite hug in a book

[Kaila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so happy to be back in Micklewick Bay! I have grown very fond of these sweet women, so supportive and present for each other through whatever they're going through. This novel focuses on Jasmine and her story. Jasmine is unstoppable. She's a single mom of 2, doing whatever she needs to make her and her children's lives better, even if it means burning herself out. Her Friday nights with the girls is her only form of de-stressing and relaxation. She's juggling a lot and, luckily, has the support of her friends, including dear Maggie, who just so happened to drop her name while starting her own business venture. Now Jasmine is presented with the opportunity of a lifetime with her cake-making business, an opportunity that can help with much financial relief. But how will she do it with her children, multiple jobs, and now having to leave her home? Not to mention, her childhood friend, Max, who was tramatically bullied throughout school, is back in Micklewick Bay and better than ever! He's a hottie and very successful. Not only are her children friends with his son, but there's a growing attraction between Jasmine and Max that's undeniable. What should Jasmine do?!
I loved this one! Like all Micklewick Bay stories, this one is refreshing and a breath of fresh air. I loved the turnaround for Jasmine, and I love how, once Max came back into the picture, she was finally able to breathe and even give love another go. Absolutely beautiful!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Eliza J. Scott for this ARC!

[TsarinaTyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eliza Scott's Micklewick Bay series gives you all the feels, and this book is no exception. Each book in the series focuses more closely on one of the women in an amazing group of friends. This book is mainly about Jasmine, or Jazz as her friends refer to her. She hasn't had an easy go in many ways but is so blessed in others. Her not-so-terrific, now deceased boyfriend, left her feeling that she never wanted to have another relationship with anyone other than her beautiful children, Zak and Chloe, her best friends, Maggie, Stella, Lark, and Florrie, her wonderful parents, and the elderly woman she visits with and does a spot of cleaning for, Hilda. Jazz is always busy spending time with her kids, working as a house cleaner, working part-time in a bakery, and also working at what she'd love to make her full-time occupation ... baking and decorating amazing celebration cakes. She has little time to think, let alone spend time getting to know anyone ... as tempting as Ando at the pubs oft repeated offers of pickled eggs and his home brew may be! How will she react when a dear friend from her childhood comes back into her life? This lovely book takes you on a journey into her life, her past, and what she hopes for her future. You'll find yourself laughing along, frustrated at how things don't always go as planned, and hopeful for a bright future for Jazz and all of the characters in Micklewick Bay. A truly delightful read!

[Meg Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jasmine “Jazz” Ingleby is the heart of this uplifting fifth installment in the Micklewick Bay series. A devoted single mum, Jazz juggles two jobs while nurturing her dream of turning her cake-making talent into a real business. Life has never been easy since losing her husband, but she’s determined to give her children a safe and happy future—even if it means putting her own happiness last.

Just when it looks like her hard work might finally pay off, her world begins to tilt. A “For Sale” sign appears outside her rented home, an old childhood rival resurfaces, and the return of Max—her once inseparable best friend—throws her emotions into disarray. Now a successful businessman, Max is back in Micklewick Bay with his son, and while sparks fly, Jazz isn’t sure she can risk her heart again.

Eliza J. Scott’s writing is as warm and comforting as one of Jazz’s buttercream cupcakes. The seaside setting is vividly drawn, the friendships between the Micklewick Bay women continue to shine, and the romance has the perfect mix of sweetness and depth. Jazz is a wonderfully relatable heroine—resilient, loving, and a little stubborn—and readers will root for her to find both security and love.

Heartfelt, cozy, and brimming with community spirit, this is another delightful addition to the series. Perfect for fans of feel-good women’s fiction and seaside romances, Cupcakes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay is a story of friendship, family, and second chances.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series about Micklewick Bay and its inhabitants..

This is a fabulous follow on to the Christmas book, Christmas at the Little Bookshop by the Sea. I think it would be helpful to have read the other books in the series so that you understand the dynamics of the town, but doesn't really matter.

I love that this next episode is all about Jasmine who we learned about when she was treated to the sleigh ride with her kids at the Castle with Lady Caro. This is quite an important aside as explains her relationship with the Castle and why her meeting with Lady Caro was so important.

Jasmine is a cake maker, and a single mum, who is struggling in several ways to make her way known and allow herself to be the real JIngilby. I love how a chance meeting as she falls almost into the arms of her longlost friend, over the wonderful canine character, Ernest.

This is an interesting story as it shows how your past can, or doesn't, influence your future - with your friends, family and future relationships. The history of Jasmine's elderly friends, Enid and Hilda, really influence Jasmine's future, and their relationships are beautiful to see. This has history from school, and how it can be so cruel, but also shows the lessons you learn are not necessarily the subjects, but about how to be a good (lifelong) friend.

I would recommend this whole series to anyone and can't wait for the next book!

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the fifth book in this charming cozy romance series, readers follow single mom and businesswoman Jasmine Ingilby as she tries to juggle many plates and keep everything in her life intact for herself and her kids. Hoping to turn her passion for baking into a job, Jasmine is at a good place until her landlord decides to sell her rented home and someone from her past returns to Micklewick Bay and brings up old memories, especially when his kids start causing issues for her children at school. Around the same time, however, her childhood best friend Max Grainger has also returned home after twenty-five years, and Jasmine simply has too much to deal with, let alone handle her emotions and hope for a happy ending. With a great emotional storyline and fantastic characters, readers will love the coziness of Micklewick Bay and the detailed and relatable characters which populate it. The details and descriptions really bring this story to life, and Eliza Scott continues to deliver fantastic details and brilliant characters in this charming, whimsical series. Fun, entertaining, and heartwarming, cozy romance readers will really enjoy the latest instalment in this charming and fun new novel from Eliza Scott.

Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advance copy.

[Kaveesha Bandara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5 /5

This book is a charming novel written by Eliza J. Scott, set in the beautiful seaside village of Micklewick Bay, and is the fifth instalment of the Micklewick Bay Series. Even though I haven’t read the previous books in the series, that didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this one.

The story follows Jasmine, a single mother with a passion for baking cakes, and her two children. When her childhood friend Max returns to Micklewick Bay with his young son, Jasmine’s life takes a turn, and they slowly start to fall in love.

The characters in this book are well developed and have the emotional depth needed to make the story feel realistic. Even the smaller side characters contribute meaningfully to the flow of the story and create a tightly knit community vibe. I really enjoyed the chemistry between the two main characters and the way they supported each other.

If you enjoy heartfelt, emotionally rich romances set in nostalgic seaside towns—with a strong, relatable heroine, a warm community, and just the right dash of baking charm—this book has all the ingredients you could want.

[Colin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jasmine is struggling alone to support her two children, working multiple jobs whilst trying to expand her celebration cake making business. Things become worse with the reappearance of an old bully, especially when his children start affecting hers at school then she finds a for sale board outside her rented house.
To be honest I wasn't sure at the beginning of this book, the relentless pressure on Jasmine was depressing for me as a reader, let alone for her. What did bring light into the story was the support of her friends, some of whom I knew from a couple of previous books in the series I had read, plus the reappearance of Max, someone whom she had known from childhood and had been very close to before he had to move away. This then changed to story to a very positive one, although it still had its darker moments, and I ended up finishing the story in a day. Definitely recommended for those who enjoy an emotional romantic story.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely addition to the series. It centres on Jasmine, a single mother who has to juggle so much just to keep going. You have to admire her independent spirit and her determination to do her best for her son. When her son acquires a new friend at school, she little knows how her future is going to change. You learn quite a bit about Jasmine's childhood with her close and caring family. Max, a friend from her childhood was not so lucky with his family and was neglected and bullied at school. Jasmine's bravery in standing up to the bullies shows you her strength of character and independent spirit.

Middlewick Bay is the ideal setting for this story of friendship and community. Jasmine's friends are familiar characters to anyone who has read previous books in the series and you get to catch up with their lives. They are all strongly drawn characters but loyal to each other and they champion Jasmine's ambitions. This is a warm and uplifting read, perfect for a summer read.

In short: family, friendships and second chances
Thanks to the publisher

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a single parent is not easy but Jasmine does her best to keep a positive approach to life. She's lucky she can count with her parents support and her best friends who always have her back which helps even exausted as a result of working two jobs and baking beautiful cakes on the side. Her children help as they are well behaved and agreeable. However, things are not running smoothly, Chloe is withdrawn and does not want to go to school, her car needs repairing but money is short, her ex-husband parents keep on demanding that she gives back the jewelry that she does not have, and the problems escalate to the point of giving her a major breakdown. Her long lost best friend Max has returned to Micklewick Bay and just his presence has the power to calm her down putting a spark in her eyes. Will Jasmine be able to overcome her problems and find a happier life? Is Max her soulmate? Cupackes and Kisses in Micklewick Bay is an easy and sweet read that will provide great entertainment for romance lovers.
I thank the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.

[Ellen LE · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book - cozy and sweet like all of the others and we finally get to learn about Jazz's back story - and the mysterious person buying up lots of local property - both of which I had been waiting for.

HOWEVER the part that really niggles me relates to Bart her former partner and the treatment of his estate after his death. The book states that the reason she had to move out of the house they shared was because it was registered in his name only and therefore after he died everything went to his parents. However as he had issue (Zak and Chloe), surely the house - and jewellery - would have been left to them? As a layabout, he doesn't appear to have been the type to have made a will so rules of intestacy would have meant Zak and the unborn Chloe would have had equal shares of the whole estate. With Stella as a Barrister, she would surely have advised Jazz to get advice on this??!!

I understand why this was treated as it was for plot purposes but it annoyed me enough to write this review :D

[theweebookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the series and it was lovely to be back in Micklewick Bay with the girls. The focus of this book is on Jasmine, or Jazz to her friends.

She is a fiesty, independent, single mum who would do anything for her kids. She has had a difficult time since the children were born between them losing their dad, working 2 jobs and trying to keep everything together as well as dreaming about her cake making business taking off.

Just as she gets an offer she can't refuse, two people from her past make an appearance. One is her childhood friend Max, the other her arch nemesis and both bring problems in different ways.

I love the author's writing style. Her descriptions of the area are so vivid you can picture them. Her characters are well written and I love the differing personalities of the friends. There are some wonderful characters in this book.

This is a heartwarming and uplifting story about family, friendship and second chances which I thoroughly enjoyed.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good to return to Micklewick Bay
To discover the folks who’ve returned to stay.
Also to catch up on the folks living there
Their friends and families for whom they care.

This time the focus is on Jasmine Ingilby
With two children this single Mum has jobs 1, 2, 3!
Determined to be financially independent she works constantly
Doing the best she can for her family.

With memories of the past rekindled once more
With friendships - and bullies - mixed feelings for sure
With their children added in to the mix
Will this prove to be an easier fix?

A gorgeous, heartwarming romance
In which childhood friends have a second chance.
But will memories and events since then
Bring them together or part them again?

With delicious cakes and tasty treats, too
No wonder I don’t hesitate to highly recommend it to you!
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.

[Paloma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poor Jasmine Ingilby has too much on her plate, and it more and more is piled on. She is a single mom of two who is always on a budget, works three jobs, has a car that is always on it's last dying breath, her in laws are taking legal action against her, her current rental is up for sale, and her kids are being bullied by her former schoolmate/school bully. I feel for her and all the things that are happening to her. Even though she has supportive friends, her amazing parents, and her own self to keep her going, it just isn't enough. A friend from the past moves back to Micklewick Bay and turns her world upside down in a good way. Love is in the air, and so is a future eviction, but Jazz will learn to let go and let love in if she doesn't want to lose him a second time.

Thank you, Netgalley and Storm Publishing, for this ARC. All opinions are entirely my own.

[Lyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed revisiting Micklewick Bay and this group of friends. Jazz is a single mum, who is juggling 2 kids and limited finances. An unwelcome visitor from the past, an unwelcome letter and her rental being sold puts immense pressure on her. Her childhood friend Max also returns and there is definite connection. My only quibble with this storyline, is if he felt so strongly about Jasmine’s family, why did it take him so long to get in contact? The fact that he is now wealthy seemed a little trite. Despite that, I enjoyed the book and the wonderful community that is portrayed, with characters battling real problems. Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing an ARC for my freely given review.

[R Evans · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a readable novel with an interesting storyline. It had a decent happy ending where a couple estranged as kids got together after a gap of 25 years. For me though, the main characters were too good to be true. The only fault with the female lead was that she chose a partner hastily first time around and did not listen to advice. He er kids wee very squeaky clean. While thee was conflict in the story, it lacked edge and was reconciled without much fuss. I would have liked to see characters with more flaws and for the conflict to by more crucial. Thus did not stop me enjoying the book though

[The Bookish Bagel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book Review 📖✨🧁💋⛵️

⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Just finished Cupcakes and Kisses in Mickelwick Bay and I have one word: COZY. This book is like being wrapped in a fluffy blanket while your favorite comfort show plays in the background.

It’s a heartwarming story about bouncing back when life gets messy, leaning on your found family, and learning to love yourself (and maybe someone else along the way 👀). Resilience has never been this delicious!

If you’re into stories that feel like a warm hug with a side of sugar rush — this one’s for you. 💖

Release Date: July 03, 2025

Huge thanks to Netgalley & Eliza J. Scott for this sweet treat of a read!

[Roo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really cute read set in Micklewick Bay, this is the fifth book in this series. Jasmine is a single mother who comes home one day to a For Sale sign in her garden, the story follows her through the trails of finding a place to live while starting up her new wedding cake business. I love reading about the characters lives. they are ordinary people who have the same problems as normal people so you can engage easily. It’s a feel good read that will leaving you wanting more. A 4.5 star read. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.

[Grace Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m loving my visits to Micklewick Bay and the lovely friendly residents. Jasmine is finding it difficult to work two jobs, cleaning,baking cakes and looking after her two children and she’s struggling.
Max left Micklewick Bay many years ago and he’s returned home. Jasmine and Max were best friends as children, could they be again?
The friendship group of the ‘lassies’ and their partners is so heartwarming and I love how they support each other. This book should have a warning as the cakes mentioned made me hungry, an absolute treat of a book.